David Allen Fry, age 67, of Winn passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his home. David was born on November 30, 1958, in Mason, to parents Forrest and Leora (Messner) Fry. David grew up in Mason, graduating from Mason High School. He was a hard-working farmer who spent his entire life dedicated to the fields. David for a time was a volunteer first responder as well. He took joy in spending time with his adopted grandkids and was known as a loving and caring man.

David is survived by his son Nathan and daughter-in-law Jewl Fry; as well as his grandchildren Blake, Brody, and BayLyn; and adopted grandchildren Brittany, Patrick, and Maisy. He also leaves behind adopted daughter Jamie Chappell, brothers Ike and Gail (Cathy) Fry, sister Marlene Fry, along with nieces, nephews, and extended family. David was preceded in death by his parents.

No services are planned currently, and cremation has taken place per Dave’s wishes. Arrangements have been entrusted to Janowicz Family Funeral Home in Edmore. Memorial contributions may be made in David’s memory to the funeral home to help cover expenses.

Dianne Elizabeth Duran, age 70, of Big Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital.

She was born March 26, 1956, in Lansing, MI, the daughter of John and Joyce (Hanson) Jones. Dianne graduated from Alma High School. On August 24, 1981, she married Willard “Will” Duran, and together they made their home in Big Rapids.

Dianne was a dedicated and friendly presence in the community, working as a cashier at Menards. She also owned and operated Duran’s Tax Service, a business she truly loved and took great pride in helping others with.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including putting puzzles together, playing games, and reading. Dianne had a beautiful singing voice and a deep love for music. She was a devoted member of the Concert Ministries Incorporated choir, known as the Michigan-Ohio Concert Choir, for over 20 years, where she shared her talents as both a singer and later in a technical role.

Dianne will be remembered for her loving and caring nature, her willingness to help anyone in need, and her deep devotion to her family. She had a lighthearted spirit—famously always running a bit late—but never failed to show up when it mattered most. She would drop everything to be there for those she loved.

She is survived by her husband, Will; her daughter, Jill Duran of Toledo, Ohio; brothers, David (Terri) Jones and Bruce Jones; sisters, Carol (Walt) Enyart, Darlene Sher, and Renee Jones; brother-in-law, Gordon (Linda) Duran; and several nieces and nephews. Dianne was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Daniel; and sister, Mary Ellen.

Funeral services for Dianne will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Her family will greet friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.         

Patrick John Sullivan, 73, of Big Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. Born on July 17, 1952, in Toledo, Ohio, Patrick lived a life defined by hard work, laughter and love for his family.

Patrick proudly served his country in the United States Military from 1970 to 1972.

Patrick embarked on a varied and industrious career. He worked for Lifetouch taking school portraits in Anchorage, Alaska. He later relocated to Big Rapids, Michigan, where he started a career in the lumber industry as a lumber grader at Paris Sawmill. Patrick’s dedication and expertise lead him to become a manager, and later the opportunity to own and operate the business himself — a milestone that reflected his lifelong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. In his leisure time, Patrick found great joy in the outdoors — whether hunting, fishing, or out on the golf course. Above all else, he treasured the time spent with those he loved most: his family.

Patrick is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Renee Sue Sullivan; his oldest daughter, Megan Sundquist, and her husband Ronald Sundquist, and their son Warren Sundquist; his middle daughter, Jamie Cicala, and her husband Frank Cicala, and their daughter Blair Cicala; and his youngest son, Stephen Sullivan.

He is also survived by his siblings: his brothers Michael Sullivan (Diane), Frank Sullivan, and Mark Sullivan (Sue); and his sisters Catherine Ostermeyer, Elizabeth Sullivan, Laura Jakes, Ruth Jones (Mike), and Sue Jones (Tom); as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Richard Sullivan; his siblings Albert Sullivan, Jana Bishop, and Margaret Sullivan; and his parents-in-law, Stephen and Claudine Fisher.

Patrick will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorial donations to be made to Project Starburst of Big Rapids, Michigan. You can donate here: https://www.projectstarburst.org/donate

To share a memory or leave a condolence with the family, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com

Allison Marie Clark, beloved daughter, sister, mentor, and friend, of Grand Rapids, MI, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday, April 24, 2026.

She was born on December 20, 1985, in Reed City, MI, to Duane Clark and Beverly Haller.  Allison is a 2004 graduate of Reed City High School.  

She brought a warm smile and an encouraging word to everyone she met, whether at work, in her rabbit community, or among friends and family.  A devoted mentor, Allison loved teaching others, whether judging, showing, or just sharing her passion for rabbits with anyone interested.

She was known to break into a Disney song at any moment and truly enjoyed life in whatever she was doing.  Allison also loved to travel to rabbit shows, collect movies and books, spend time with her boyfriend Daniel Owensm and relax with her cats.

She is survived by her parents Duane (Janet) Clark and Beverly Haller; her siblings Tracy (Mark), Rob (Sheryl), Nick, Brenda, Sandy (Jason), Jason, Brian, and Jennifer (Aaron); and many nieces and nephews who will carry forward her memory and spirit.

A celebration of Allison’s life will be held by Dan Owens and the family at Haven Christian Reformed Church, 541 Alice Street, Zeeland, MI 49464 on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.  Visitation begins at 10:00 A.M. with the service starting at 11:00 A.M.

Christine "Chris" Louise Darling, 71, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026. She was born on March 8, 1955 in Mecosta, the daughter of Vernard and Lois Rolston (Blakeley).

Chris Darling was a loving mother of four children: Theresa Cole, Jesse Ward, LaToya Reuther, and Cameron Darling; a wonderful grandma to Dakota Ward, Dustin Cole, Mia Roggow, Abbi Reuther, Lorelei Reuther, Valric Reuther, and Aaron Ward. She also had her first great-grandchild: Cedar Ward.

Chris was a dedicated mother who enjoyed life and spending time with her family camping and traveling. She was the kind of mom who was one in a million, and we were lucky to have her in our lives. She will be dearly missed and always remembered. Her legacy and memories will always be passed down to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to come.

Even though it hurts to say goodbye, we know she is at peace in Heaven with her loving husband, Steven Darling. She was also predeceased by her parents: Vernard Rolston and Lois Rolston (Blakeley); three brothers: Sam, Danny, and Rick Rolston; and two grandchildren: Douglas Roggow Jr. and Sanduska Cole.

"We love you Mom, and we will always cherish the memories we have with you. Rest in peace, and we will see you on the other side."

Ina Jean (Finney) Bitler, was born January 17, 1949, in Midland, MI, to Mike and Agnes (Bradt) Finney. She graduated from Midland High School in 1967.

Jean was an amazing cook and loved to be in the kitchen cooking for others. She also had a love for horses. Jean started riding at a young age in 4-H and began doing timed events with her horse, named Cheetah.

Right after graduating, she married Vernon L. Bitler, the love of her life. Together they raised two children, Diana K. and Douglas L. Bitler.

Jean earned an associate degree from Delta in nursing. She was the church secretary at East Ashman and Barryton Church of God. In 1977, the family moved to Barryton, MI, and purchased Barryton Family Pharmacy, where she worked alongside her husband. Jean attended the Barryton Church of God, where she cooked many meals for funerals, the church family, and community outreach.

Jean also took up a career as a Real Estate Agent under Eagle Realty. Then she became the office manager for a urologist until she retired.

Jean was preceded in death by: her parents, Agnes and Mike and mother-in-law, Bessie Bitler.

She is survived by: her beloved husband of 58 years, Vernon L. Bitler; daughter, Diana Bitler; son, Douglas (Sheila) Bitler; sister, Sharon (Bill) Kruskie; four loving grandchildren, Olivia (Brayden) Nelson, Isabel (Colton) Wright, Braden Bitler, and Heidi Bitler and many nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends.

Memorial contributions in Jean's name can be made to the Barryton Church of God. A celebration of life is planned for 11AM on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Barryton Church of God with Pastor John Mellish officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services with a luncheon to follow. Jean will be laid to rest next to her parents at Flake Cemetery, Barryton, MI. Until that time condolences can be left online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com.  

James Thomas Misner Jr., 78, of Evart, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, in Grand Rapids, MI, following health complications from an accident he sustained, doing what he loved, earlier in the week.

He was born on August 13, 1947, in Big Rapids, Michigan, to James and Dorothy (Martens) Misner Sr. He graduated from White Cloud High School in 1965 and entered into the United State Navy where he proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1971, receiving an honorable discharge. On September 7, 1968, he married Yvonne Trahan, at Great Lakes Naval Base, IL. Together, they raised their children and built a life centered on family and hard work.

Jim earned a Bachelor of Science from Ferris State College, which he used to share his talents with others as a dedicated shop teacher in public education. Jim was a man who rarely sat still, if he wasn’t teaching, he was working with his hands—something that brought him great joy. No matter the task, he approached it with skill, curiosity, and determination.

Outside of work, Jim found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He faithfully attended Crossroads Community Church in Evart. Jim’s love of machinery and history led him to serve as former president of the Big Rapids Antique Farm and Power Club, and he was a proud member of the Greasy Fingers Two Cylinder Club in Big Rapids.

Grateful for the time they shared and comforted knowing that Jim lived a full and vibrant life are: his children, Gary (Nancy) Misner of Lowell and Gregory (Nicole) Misner of Fairfield, Montana; three grandchildren, Rachel (Noah) Dunsmore of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Elise (fiancé Ike Heeren) Misner of Grand Rapids, and Easton Misner of Fairfield, MT; one great-granddaughter, Eleanor Dunsmore; two brothers, Brian (Tina) Misner and Gary Misner, two nieces, extended family who he hunted with for years, Doug (Theresa) McMullen, Roy Trahan, and Cheryl DePew and many other extended family members and friends that were also close to his heart. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Yvonne, in 2000; two siblings, Roger (Connie) Misner, and Mary Lou (Brian) Daniels and extended family, Ron DePew.

A life celebration will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 10th at Crossroads Community Church, 110 S. Main, Evart, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name can be made to Crossroads Community Church. Condolences can be left online by tapping the Tribute Wall tab on James’ page at www.coreyfuneralhome.com

A mother’s love is forever, and it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ruth L. Hess on April 30, 2026.

Ruth Lorraine Hess, born on May 27, 1945, was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, public servant, and friend. She lived a life rooted in public service. She was affectionately known as “Ruthie,” a name she truly enjoyed being called.

Ruth was the beloved daughter of Ronald and Charlotte Tronsen. She is survived by her siblings Patricia and Donald Bauman, Bob Tronsen, and Barb Tronsen. She also shared a special bond with her sister-in-law, Nancy Weeks, for whom she was especially thankful for the many visits and companionship over the last few years.

Ruth was a proud 1963 graduate of Morley Stanwood. She married Dale Hess, and together they raised a family in Stanwood. Ruth is also survived by her children: Doug and Lori Hess; Susan and Curt Medler; and Rod and Christina Hess. She was a proud grandmother to Matthew (Kecia) Medler, Megan (Jake) Gebhardt, Madison Hess, and MacKenzie Hess, and a cherished great-grandmother to five: Natalie, Benjamin, Ayla, Abileen, and Eve. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly. Ruth held dear many friendships, especially one that stood the test of time and distance—her treasured friendship with Ann Phillips, which began in kindergarten.

Ruth dedicated much of her life to public service. She served as Mecosta Township Clerk, Mecosta County Clerk, and County Commissioner. She took great pride in her over 30 years of public service. In 2002, she was honored to serve as President of the Michigan Association of County Clerks. She also contributed her time as secretary for the Michigan Horse Pullers Association. Ruth believed deeply in civic duty and often encouraged others to vote and participate in jury service, often expressing what an honor it was to serve. She was a proud Republican and a deeply patriotic woman. She enjoyed shopping for clothing that showed her patriotic side.

Ruth had many talents and passions. Ruth was a gifted musician who found joy in sharing her talents. She was a beautiful singer and played the piano, organ, and accordion. She enjoyed playing euchre, spending time with loved ones, and cooking and baking—especially her well-loved red cake. She took great pride in purchasing her new home and her red Cadillac, a symbol of her independence. She also had an appreciation for covered bridges, University of Michigan Football and Basketball, and of course her Detroit Tigers.

Our mom was exactly what you hoped a mother and grandmother would be. She stressed education, work ethic, God, country and family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Reed City Fields for the compassionate care she was given. She is now at peace and free from the physical challenges she faced in recent years.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. A short service will be held at 4:00 PM. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In the Lord’s perfect timing on April 10, 2026, Margaret Elizabeth (Jackson) Cruikshank was called home. She was born on June 1, 1929 in Havaco, West Virginia to John and Katherine Grygiel. She was the youngest of ten siblings who grew up in Davy, West Virginia, a coal mine town. 

She married Robert Jackson on May 16, 1946. They moved to Detroit in 1950 and to Evart in 1960 where together they raised two daughters, Jeanette and Katherine. 

She enjoyed reading, cooking, (she liked to talk to her biscuits) , sunflowers, gardening and canning the fruits of that labor. Margaret worked at Evart Products for close to 30 years. She and Robert were married for 46 years prior to his death in 1992. 

She later married Rex Cruikshank on February 8, 2003. He preceded her in death in December 2021. She and Rex were longtime members of the Calvary Baptist Church in Evart where for many years they hosted the congregation with serving co?ee and treats in between Sunday School and church services.

In 2006 at the age of 77 she fulfilled a dream of traveling to her mother’s birthplace in Poland and met some of her cousins for the first time. She was a person who never seemed to know a stranger and was always ready to help someone in need. She lived her final years in the care of her daughter, Jeanette and finally at Willow Brook Memory Care in Sturgis, MI. 

She is survived by her daughters, Jeanette Jackson of Centreville , MI, Katherine (Mark) Corrigan of Grand Blanc, MI and many nieces and nephews.

She will be laid to rest at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, April 22nd at Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart, MI. Memorial contributions in Margaret's name can be made to Osceola County Commission on Aging- Meals on Wheels 215 S. Division St., Hersey, MI 49639

Condolences can be left by clicking the “Tribute Wall” tab online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com